Ecolab has partnered with CDP to launch the Water Use Efficiency Index, a benchmarking tool that will enable companies to assess and improve their operational water performance.
Unveiled at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, the index will feature sector-specific reference points for optimal water performance, giving business leaders a ‘clear view of where they stand with water use in their operations and how to improve’, the groups said.
A pilot is currently being rolled out in the beverage and brewing segment, one of the most water‑intensive sectors globally.
‘Critical economic input’
“Water is a critical economic input,” commented Sherry Madera, CEO, CDP. “It is integral to growth and success across industries including AI, semiconductors, and manufacturing. As water stress intensifies, companies that understand, manage and improve their water use will be better positioned to protect margins, secure supply chains and attract capital.”
As the groups note, the index has been developed to provide business leaders with a ‘clear, data-driven view’ of what best‑in‑class operational water use looks like for specific industries, enabling them to benchmark against their peers, identify opportunities to improve efficiency, and scale circular water management approaches, thereby reducing their water footprint.
“Water is the foundation of life and business,” said Christophe Beck, chairman and CEO, Ecolab. “Every breakthrough depends on water, and the private sector has an incredible opportunity to reimagine how we manage this vital resource.
“Our partnership with CDP aims to be the catalyst for industrial water use transformation. By championing best-in-class operational water performance, companies can embark toward a future of meaningful growth and positive impact.”
Combined dataset
The Water Use Efficiency Index draws on CDP’s extensive database of corporate water disclosures, as well as Ecolab’s operational insights from customer locations across 40 industries and 170 countries. As the groups note, the use of this combined dataset means the index can offer best-in-class benchmarks, and showcase industry‑leading performance in business water use efficiency.
“Together with CDP, we are helping companies turn disclosure into action to drive performance, improve efficiency and lower costs,” added Emilio Tenuta, SVP and chief sustainability officer, Ecolab. Read more here.
